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Electric vehicles have come a long way. Let’s explore their history and what lies on the road ahead.
Electric carriages emerged in the 1830s and by 1890, they were optimised to reach speeds of 32 km/h with a range of 80 km. With continuous development, EVs started being used commercially by 1923 and could reach speeds of 88 km/h and a range of 65 km by 1967.
To meet 1996 zero-emission mandates, manufacturers converted vehicles to electric variants with nickel-metal hydride and lithium-ion batteries offering ranges up to 257 km. In 1997, a 150 kW electric sports car inspired the 2008 Tesla Roadster, which popularized EVs and set the stage for the electric vehicles we see today.
Recent advancements in EV technology are pushing the envelope and creating a brighter future for electric mobility. The development of solid-state batteries offers more energy, faster charging times and improved safety compared to lithium-ion batteries.
There are over 350 charging stations available in South Africa and more companies investing in charging infrastructure development means that we are likely to see even more pop up on the map. This makes travelling long distances more convenient and future advancements in wireless charging technology could make topping up your battery as easy as parking in a spot.
Automakers far and wide are adding exhilarating new EV models of all shapes and sizes to their range. Models such as the BMW i3, the Jaguar I-PACE, the Nissan Leaf and more are set to change perspectives on EVs with innovative designs and features for various lifestyles and requirements. More cost-effective models like the Mini Electric are also making EVs more accessible for all.